New build: London. Almost a quarter of a million pounds may seem alot to pay for a small slice of capital living, but this one-bed apartment will be a rarity: both spacious (446 sq ft) and in a fantastic Hackney location, seconds away from shops and rail and underground stations. The large open-plan kitchen segues into dining and living space, and the amenities include a 24-hour concierge and a residents’ gymnasium. Yours for £246,000. Barratts, 0845 871 0205

New build: Lincoln. This £399,950 semi-detached townhouse, tucked away on a hill in East Bight, is an amble away from the city's magnificent cathedral quarter and the historic Bailgate area. The kitchen is fitted with Siemens appliances and underfloor heating warms the ground floor. Three bedrooms, two receptions and two bathrooms are spread over three storeys ,while a large decked balcony absorbs views towards the cathedral. Chesterton Humberts, 01522 546444

Historic home: Perthshire. An acre of garden surrounds this secluded farmhouse which lies at the head of Strathbraan. Yours for £685,000, the living room is warmed by a wood-burning stove, while an Aga takes care of the kitchen/dining room. A former threshing mill is next door, having previously earned its keep as a holiday cottage with three bedrooms and an open-plan kitchen. A productive vegetable plot will provide some of your five-a-day. CKD Galbraith, 01738 451111

Historic home: Devon. A lovely conversion has sprinkled charm throughout this detached barn in the bucolic backwaters of Ashwater. The three beamed and well-sized bedrooms have outstanding views of rural countryside, while 100 yards up the quiet parish road is a near-hectare of gently sloping paddock, which can be bought for an extra £40,000. Okehampton is just a mile away and Exeter is a short train journey. Cost: £310,000. Christopher Bond, 01409 254238

Overseas: America. The small matter of a nearby ecological disaster has more than halved the price of this Florida home (one of five) to about £100,000. That 12-year-low price gets you five bedrooms and three bathrooms spanning 2,000 sq ft. If the private pool isn’t enough distraction, the nearby Disney World Resort in Orlando will prove popular with children. For adults there is a community clubhouse, pool and fitness centre. Mortgages are available for British and other international buyers with a 30% down payment. British Homes Group Florida, 0800 096 5989